Celebrate the Children works closely with the Developmental Center for Children and Families who facilitates our annual summer program.

Children with sensory, learning and communication difficulties often possess social deficits. These are due to a lack of connectedness to others, deficits in abstract thinking, problem solving and motor planning/visual-spatial abilities. Often, this is a result in low confidence or Independence and inappropriate behavior in social situations. Typically, these children do not pick up social behavior by mere observation of others. They require skills that need to be developed in an environment where they feel motivated and comfortable enough to interact.

DCCF believes that the best way to facilitate socialization in every child is to demonstrate an understanding for the child’s individual differences. We believe in celebrating the child for who they are rather than trying to make them someone else. We attempt to let each child know we respect them for their interests, encouraging them to feel comfortable with us.

Once the child has made a connection with those around them, specific social skills are carefully laid in. Although demands on the child may be increased, respect for their world will never be put second to those demands. Continual enthusiasm for their interests builds a trusting relationship that allows for maximum learning.

Children with disabilities are children first. Therefore, our summer program focuses on having the silly, carefree kind of fun every child should enjoy. It is our experience that this type of environment, saturated with typical peers as models, promotes the best socialization and independence in all children.

To learn more about the Developmental Center for Children and Families or the programs they offer, please visit their website, www.dccfnj.com.